This iconic Cafe de Paris butter sauce adds a luxurious, herb-infused richness to a perfectly cooked steak, elevating the simple meat into an indulgent gourmet experience. The combination of fresh herbs, tangy lemon, and umami-packed anchovies melds beautifully into the creamy butter, melting over the hot steak for an irresistible finish.
Whether you’re grilling for a special occasion or simply want to impress with a classic French touch, this sauce is the ultimate steak companion. The vibrant green flecks of herbs and the glossy melted butter make the dish visually stunning, while the depth of flavor keeps every bite exciting and memorable.
Full Recipe:
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150g unsalted butter, softened
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1 small shallot, finely chopped
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1 garlic clove, minced
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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1 teaspoon anchovy paste
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1 tablespoon capers, finely chopped
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
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1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
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1 tablespoon fresh tarragon, finely chopped
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1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 200g each)
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Olive oil, for cooking
Directions:
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In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, shallot, garlic, Dijon mustard, anchovy paste, capers, parsley, chives, tarragon, thyme, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix thoroughly until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer the butter mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap, shape into a log, and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour to firm up.
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Take the steaks out of the fridge about 20 minutes before cooking to reach room temperature. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
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Heat a heavy skillet or grill pan over high heat. Drizzle a little olive oil to coat the surface. Cook the steaks for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or to your desired doneness.
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Remove steaks from the pan and rest them on a plate for 5 minutes.
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Slice rounds from the chilled Cafe de Paris butter and place one on top of each steak just before serving. Allow the butter to melt over the hot steak, infusing it with rich herbaceous flavors.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: approx. 450 kcal per serving | Servings: 2 servings
Introduction to Cafe de Paris Butter Sauce Steak
Cafe de Paris butter sauce steak is a timeless classic in French cuisine that has captivated steak lovers worldwide. This recipe is not just about cooking a steak; it’s about elevating it with a rich, complex herb butter that brings layers of flavor and sophistication to a simple cut of meat. Originating from the legendary Café de Paris in Geneva, this sauce quickly became famous for its luxurious taste and versatility, making it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike.
The Origins and History
The story of Cafe de Paris butter sauce dates back to the mid-20th century, believed to have been created at the Café de Paris restaurant in Geneva, Switzerland. The original recipe was a closely guarded secret, contributing to its mystique and allure. Over time, chefs have shared variations inspired by the original, but the essential elements remain the same: a compound butter infused with a mixture of fresh herbs, aromatic spices, and umami-rich ingredients like anchovies and capers.
This sauce was designed to complement the richness of grilled or pan-seared steaks, enhancing their natural flavors without overpowering them. Its reputation spread across Europe and eventually the world, becoming a hallmark of fine dining and a go-to sauce for steak enthusiasts.
Why Use Cafe de Paris Butter Sauce?
What sets Cafe de Paris butter sauce apart from other steak sauces is its incredible balance of flavors. The butter provides a creamy richness that melts luxuriously over the steak. The combination of fresh herbs like parsley, chives, tarragon, and thyme adds freshness and aromatic complexity. The anchovy paste and capers contribute a subtle savory depth that elevates the sauce to gourmet status.
Lemon juice and Dijon mustard add bright, tangy notes that cut through the richness, making every bite vibrant and well-rounded. This blend creates a multi-dimensional taste experience that enhances the natural succulence of the steak without masking its character.
Perfect Steak Pairing
Cafe de Paris butter sauce pairs best with high-quality cuts of beef such as ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon. These cuts have enough fat and marbling to marry beautifully with the richness of the herb butter. The steak is usually cooked to medium-rare or medium to maintain juiciness, which complements the melting butter perfectly.
When the steak is hot off the grill or pan, slices of chilled Cafe de Paris butter are placed on top, where they slowly melt, coating the meat in a glossy, flavorful sauce. The result is an irresistible dish that is both visually appealing and deeply satisfying to the palate.
Variations and Customizations
One of the great things about this sauce is its flexibility. While the classic recipe uses a specific mix of herbs and seasonings, you can easily tweak it to your taste or dietary preferences. For instance, you can substitute or add herbs like rosemary or basil depending on what you have on hand.
For a spicier twist, a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can be incorporated. Those who prefer a less intense anchovy flavor can reduce the amount or substitute with miso paste for a similar umami effect.
For a dairy-free option, you could experiment with a vegan butter substitute, although the flavor profile will differ slightly. However, the core principle of infusing fat with fresh herbs and bold seasoning remains the same.
Serving Suggestions
Cafe de Paris butter sauce steak is traditionally served with simple sides that let the steak shine. Classic French fries, creamy mashed potatoes, or a light green salad with vinaigrette make excellent accompaniments. Steamed or roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or green beans, also balance the richness of the dish.
For a more indulgent meal, consider pairing with sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions, which add another layer of flavor and texture. A glass of full-bodied red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, complements the herbaceous and buttery notes of the sauce beautifully.
Tips for Making the Best Cafe de Paris Butter Sauce
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Use high-quality butter: Since butter is the base of the sauce, using unsalted, fresh butter is essential for the best flavor and texture.
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Chill the butter properly: After mixing the herbs and seasonings into the butter, chilling it helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to slice onto the steak.
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Fresh herbs matter: Dried herbs won’t give the same vibrant flavor and color. Use fresh herbs for the most aromatic and visually appealing sauce.
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Balance seasoning: Taste the butter mixture before chilling and adjust salt, pepper, and acidity (lemon juice) to your liking.
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Cook steak properly: Resting the steak after cooking is crucial. It allows juices to redistribute and prevents the butter from melting too quickly and running off the meat.
Nutritional Perspective
While Cafe de Paris butter sauce adds indulgence to your steak, it also adds calories and fat due to its butter content. However, it is rich in flavor, so a small amount goes a long way, making it easy to enjoy without excess.
The herbs contribute antioxidants and vitamins, adding a slight nutritional boost. For those watching fat intake, consider using the sauce sparingly or pairing it with leaner cuts of meat.
Cafe de Paris Butter Sauce in Modern Cuisine
Today, the Cafe de Paris butter sauce remains a symbol of classic French gastronomy but has also found a place in modern culinary experiments. Chefs use it not only with beef but with chicken, fish, and even vegetables, showing its versatility.
It’s also a popular addition in home kitchens due to its relatively simple preparation and the impressive results it delivers. This sauce transforms an ordinary steak dinner into a celebration of flavors with minimal effort.
Conclusion
Cafe de Paris butter sauce steak is a quintessential example of how simple ingredients, when thoughtfully combined, can create something extraordinary. This rich, herbaceous butter sauce enhances the natural juiciness and flavor of a perfectly cooked steak, making it a memorable dish for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special milestone, or simply treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste with approachable techniques. Its historical roots, balanced flavors, and adaptability ensure it will remain a beloved classic for years to come.
Try this recipe to experience the elegant simplicity of French cooking and discover why the Cafe de Paris butter sauce continues to captivate palates around the world.